BMW ConnectedDrive: Real-Time Traffic Information now also available on the Internet

Munich. BMW ConnectedDrive offers innovative services and features for establishing intelligent networks between the driver, the vehicle and the world at large, enabling BMW customers …

Munich. BMW ConnectedDrive offers innovative services and features for establishing intelligent networks between the driver, the vehicle and the world at large, enabling BMW customers to enjoy unparalleled comfort, Infotainment and safety while on the road. BMW was the first manufacturer worldwide to introduce the wide range of unique features and functions that are available with BMW ConnectedDrive.

The company continues to lead the competition by leveraging its pioneering know-how to launch exclusive new features and technologies for BMW owners. The latest innovation is an enhancement for users of the BMW Routes Portal: Customers who have subscribed to the BMW Assist and BMW Online features offered in BMW ConnectedDrive now have access to the latest traffic reports via Real-Time Traffic Information (RTTI) from the Web portal with any Internet-enabled device. Previously users could only access this service while in the vehicle.

RTTI is a reliable and precise solution that transmits traffic information in real time for planning travel routes and avoiding congested areas or unfavourable conditions in advance. The programme uses local traffic data and tracks the anonymous movement profiles of mobile communication devices in dynamic networks, thus creating a precise overview of the current traffic situation by determining the number, speed and positions of vehicles currently on the road. The advantage of this approach is in the speed and accuracy of the data transmission when compared to traffic reports broadcast by radio. What’s more, RTTI is able to monitor real-time data from taxis or fleet vehicles having navigation systems that communicate with central dispatchers – this adds to the speed and accuracy of information that points to traffic problems. In addition to motorways and expressways, RTTI also covers secondary roads, city streets and interurban connections.

The online usage of RTTI in the BMW Routes Portal is available on the Internet at www.bmw-routen.de or internationally at www.bmw-routes.com and contributes to comfort, safety and peace of mind when travelling by car. BMW ConnectedDrive customers can enter their destination online at anytime and easily plan their next route. They can also access traffic information about incidents or traffic flow, in addition to defining route criteria and requesting alternative routes from the system. Based on the current traffic situation, the route planner can also calculate the exact time of arrival. And if traffic conditions should change or worsen once a route has been planned, the route planner can send the driver an e-mail well in advance and suggest an earlier departure time. This allows the driver to continue working at the office or take part in a meeting without worrying about when to get behind the wheel – the route planner will indicate the precise time to leave for the next appointment. That saves time and reduces stress.

All BMW ConnectedDrive subscribers can also be sure that the data they receive online from the BMW Routes Portal at home or in the office matches the information transmitted to their car – 100 percent. What’s more, the transmission of RTTI-optimized route data directly to the vehicle can take place via USB stick or BMW Online.

The online usage of RTTI beyond the confines of the vehicle environment will also be possible with the My BMW Remote App on supported smartphones beginning in the autumn of 2011.